Description Free Spirit explores the dynamics of abstract human anatomy from life. Free Spirit identifies with an abstract figure that explores free flowing forms and expresses effeminate contours and outlines a prominent transformation of self spirituality and exuberant beauty. A dichotomous transformation of substance and vitality intimately unites the virility of a double personality that interlace the vigor and passionate melancholy of pure, spiritual expression.

Joe Salazar, New JerseyMember Since February 2010Artist Statement Born and raised in poverty, Joe Salazar's upbringing developed under extreme adversity by a single parent and mother of two. It was during these times that a strong work ethic and strict disciplinary regiment was implemented and enforced. At age 8, I was introduced to the grid iron of hard labor in the infamous Chile, pecan, and onion fields; it was during this time that I understood the meaning of life's hardships and the significance of survival. This became the foundation of my strength and as time progressed, hard work became my passion at every level and an integral part of my vision.
In 1970, at age 9, my first work of art was revealed and honored at a Museum of Art in El Paso, Texas and started to realize to some degree that I was meant to merge and grow as an artist. It was a great accomplishment and stepping stone to pave a path in the world of art. In 1973, at age 12, I started my first art apprentice job as an artist assistant at Chico Arts in El Paso, Texas and continued to further my education in art and architecture during my high school years. This phase dictated my path in architecture with an interest in art which evolved after 3 years of architectural drafting courses. In 1988, after serving my country in The United States Marine Corps, a continual advancement of art and architecture was merging in academics at El Paso’s Community College and achieved excellence in architecture. In 1991, I was accepted to the School of Architecture and Planning in Albuquerque, New Mexico and graduated with my undergraduate studies 1994 and post graduate studies in 1996.
After a fruitful completion in academics, I pursued a career in art and delivered a series of art exhibits in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In 1998, I commenced my career in architecture and after one year of office experience, I decided to venture to New York to further my path in art and architecture with a primary interest in high rise design and human anatomy. It was during this time that my art continued to develop at a different level as I challenged my art skills towards the understanding and learning of human anatomy from life. The study of human anatomy has always fascinated me and has always been the central point and mastery of abstract works. Exploring and achieving mastery in portrait works became an essential ingredient for the validation of my art and architecture career.
My journey in art and architecture has continued to evolve to date with several unfinished works, works in progress and completed works on exhibit to date. Art and architecture has become a vehicle for spiritual freedom and a true passion for life and existence. It has allowed me to reveal a true form of expression with a goal to make an impact on society, our community and the human race. Building a bridge to universal unity of mankind is an inspirational vision of art that embraces my soul and spirit into the millennial future.